Los Angeles County Dist. Atty. Nathan Hochman has stated that he will not consider the Menendez brothers, Erik and Lyle, as a package deal when it comes to making a decision on their possible resentencing. This approach is necessary because Hochman views each case separately, unlike the initial trials where the brothers were treated as a single entity.
The brothers were initially sentenced to life in prison without parole in 1996 for murdering their parents in their Beverly Hills mansion. However, with new evidence emerging, there is an opportunity for them to have their sentences re-evaluated. Prosecutors had previously recommended that the brothers receive a new sentence of 50 years to life, which would make them eligible for immediate parole.
Hochman has been reviewing thousands of pages of confidential prison files and will consult with his team before making a decision. He has also removed two deputy district attorneys who worked on the initial recommendation.
The latest development in the case involves new claims of sexual abuse brought forward by Roy Rosselló, a former member of the boy band Menudo. Erik Menendez had previously written a letter about the abuse he endured as a teenager prior to committing the killings. The defense team has filed a habeas corpus petition arguing that this new evidence supports their claim that the brothers were victims of sexual abuse.
The Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Michael Jesic has rescheduled the brothers’ resentencing hearing for January 30-31, citing the need for more time to review the complex case. The governor, Gavin Newsom, is also considering clemency for the brothers.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/menendez-brothers-arent-package-deal-002846784.html